Aerobatic Cruisers
I enjoyed your article on aerobatic travelers in the December 2023 Aviation Consumer, but was disappointed to see no mention of my longtime favorite—the SIAI-Marchetti SF-260. True, there aren’t many around, about 100 in the USA at last count, but of all the airplanes you listed, only the aerobatic Bonanza even comes close in terms of excelling as both a fast traveler (170 to 175 knots cruise) and a strong, capable aerobatic performer.
Most of the 1500 or so models in the world were sold to smaller-country militaries as primary trainers, and the side-by-side seating is well-suited to training or for easy sociability on a cross-country trip. (The small back seat is tight, uncomfortable, with limited visibility and poor ventilation, so it’s best suited for luggage.) With a 260-HP Lycoming O-540 or IO-540 engine, Hartzell prop and most other moving parts sourced from well-known U.S. manufacturers, maintenance is straightforward for any experienced American A&P; the few exotic parts are available —for a hefty price—from Italy.